In the heart of Miami’s thriving Brickell neighborhood, where glass towers glisten in the sun and luxury reigns supreme, Gekko Miami has carved out its place not just as a restaurant, but as a full-blown experience. A collaboration between hospitality mogul David Grutman and music superstar Bad Bunny, Gekko blends fine dining, Japanese flavors, and South Florida style into one of the most talked-about venues in the city.

A Fusion of Cultures and Flavors

Gekko’s concept is straightforward yet bold: a Japanese steakhouse reinvented through a contemporary, global lens. The menu doesn’t shy away from pushing boundaries, offering dishes that honor tradition while fully embracing innovation. From melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef to intricately prepared sushi rolls, the restaurant invites diners on a journey through textures and flavors that are anything but ordinary.

Signature dishes like the Wagyu Dumplings, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, and Short Rib Gyoza are testaments to the kitchen’s creativity. For those with deeper pockets, the Tomahawk Steak topped with gold leaf makes for both a culinary and visual spectacle.

Design That Dazzles

When you step inside Gekko, the experience begins long before the food hits the table. The design, led by New York-based Rockwell Group, is theatrical in the best way possible. Rich red velvet, moody lighting, and sculptural elements create an intimate yet glamorous ambiance.

Gekko is split into multiple spaces, including a lush dining room and a high-energy bar area, each evoking a different emotion. Whether you’re there for a romantic dinner or a celebratory night out, the surroundings adapt and elevate the mood.

The Celebrity Factor

One of the biggest draws to Gekko is undoubtedly the celebrity presence. With Bad Bunny involved as a co-owner, it’s no surprise that the restaurant quickly became a magnet for A-listers. Everyone from LeBron James to Kim Kardashian has been spotted at Gekko, and for many locals and tourists, the hope of brushing shoulders with a famous face adds another layer of allure to the venue.

That said, Gekko is far from just a hype machine. While its connection to pop culture may grab headlines, it’s the quality of the dining and service that keeps patrons coming back.

Service That Matches the Setting

In a city known for flash and flair, Gekko manages to offer service that’s both polished and personable. Staff members are trained not just to deliver food, but to craft a memorable experience. Whether it’s guiding you through the extensive sake menu or customizing a tasting experience based on your preferences, the service at Gekko is attentive without being overbearing.

For first-time diners, the staff often recommends sharing a variety of small plates before diving into one of the premium cuts of beef or specialty sushi rolls — a strategy that allows guests to experience the full spectrum of what Gekko has to offer.

A Night Out, Not Just a Meal

What truly sets Gekko apart is how it merges the dining experience with the energy of Miami’s nightlife. Music pulses subtly through the air, conversations flow like cocktails, and there’s an almost electric buzz that permeates the space. It’s not unusual for dinner to transition seamlessly into a late-night vibe, with guests lingering over drinks and dessert until long after the kitchen closes.

That balance — between high-end cuisine and the spirit of a night out — is what Gekko does better than most.

Final Thoughts: Gekko Is a Vibe

Dining at Gekko Miami isn’t just about satisfying your appetite — it’s about indulging every sense. From the visually arresting interior to the inventive menu and stylish clientele, Gekko delivers on the promise of a high-end experience that feels uniquely Miami.

Whether you’re a local looking for your next go-to spot or a visitor wanting to see what the hype is about, Gekko is worth the reservation. It’s a place where style meets substance, where food is both performance and pleasure — and where every meal is a moment.

Gekko Miami FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is Gekko Miami?

Gekko is an upscale Japanese-inspired steakhouse and lounge located in the heart of Brickell, Miami. It’s a collaboration between nightlife entrepreneur David Grutman and global music star Bad Bunny, blending fine dining, stylish interiors, and nightlife vibes.

2. Where is Gekko located?

Address:
8 SE 8th St, Miami, FL 33131
Located in the SLS LUX Brickell building, near Mary Brickell Village.

3. What kind of food does Gekko serve?

Gekko offers a unique mix of:

Premium steaks (Wagyu, Tomahawk, Filet)
Japanese-inspired dishes (sushi, sashimi, robata skewers)
Fusion small plates (spicy tuna crispy rice, gyoza, wagyu dumplings)

4. What are the opening hours?

Typical hours (subject to change):

Sunday – Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Thursday – Saturday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
Reservations are highly recommended, especially Thursday through Sunday.

5. Do I need a reservation?

Yes, reservations are strongly encouraged, especially on weekends. Walk-ins may be accommodated based on availability, but there’s often a long wait.

Reserve via:

Resy
The official Gekko website
Concierge or hotel services if you’re staying nearby

6. What’s the dress code?

Upscale evening attire is required.
Think: dress shirts, blazers, cocktail dresses, heels, or upscale fashion. Athletic wear, flip-flops, tank tops, and beachwear are not permitted.

7. Is Gekko expensive?

Yes, Gekko is on the higher end of the pricing scale. Expect:

Small plates: $18–$35
Sushi rolls: $20–$40
Steaks: $75–$250+ (premium Wagyu and Tomahawk options can go higher)
Cocktails: $18–$25
Bottled sake or wine: $80+

The experience is luxurious and priced accordingly.

8. Is Gekko a good place for celebrations or group dinners?

Absolutely. Gekko is a popular choice for:

Birthdays
Bachelor/bachelorette dinners
Corporate outings
Date nights

They offer group dining menus upon request and can accommodate parties with advance notice.

9. Who owns Gekko?

Gekko is a partnership between:

David Grutman, founder of Groot Hospitality (LIV, Komodo, Swan, The Goodtime Hotel)
Bad Bunny, international recording artist and cultural icon

10. Is there a bar or lounge area?

Yes. Gekko features a beautiful bar and lounge area, perfect for pre-dinner drinks or late-night cocktails. The bar operates with a full selection of sake, premium spirits, signature cocktails, and curated wines.

11. Is Gekko suitable for children or families?

While children are not explicitly prohibited, Gekko is primarily an adult-oriented, nightlife-driven atmosphere. It’s more suited for date nights, groups, and sophisticated dining experiences than for family dinners with kids.

12. Is there valet parking?

Yes, valet parking is available at the SLS LUX Brickell entrance. Street parking and nearby garages are also options, but valet is the most convenient.

13. Is Gekko wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the venue is ADA-compliant and accessible for guests with mobility needs. If you have specific concerns, it’s best to mention them when booking your reservation.

14. Are there vegetarian or vegan options?

While Gekko focuses heavily on meat and seafood, there are limited vegetarian options like:

Vegetarian sushi rolls
Vegetable skewers
Edamame
Mushroom-based dishes

Vegan options are more limited, but you can ask the kitchen for modifications.

15. What’s the vibe like?

Gekko is chic, intimate, and high-energy — think:

Low lighting and luxurious decor
Trendy music and a lively crowd
A mix of fine dining and social energy

It often feels like a restaurant-meets-nightclub hybrid.

16. Can I host a private event at Gekko?

Yes. Gekko offers private dining and event options for corporate functions, product launches, and special celebrations. Contact the restaurant directly for more information on group menus and minimum spends.

17. What celebrities have been spotted at Gekko?

Several high-profile celebrities have been seen dining at Gekko, including:

LeBron James
Kim Kardashian
David Beckham
DJ Khaled
Bad Bunny himself

It’s a hotspot for the fashion, sports, and music elite.

18. Is there a dress code enforcement?

Yes. Guests who do not meet the smart dress code may be denied entry, especially on weekends. Be sure to dress accordingly to avoid issues.

19. Does Gekko offer takeout or delivery?

As of now, Gekko focuses on the in-person dining experience. Takeout and delivery options are extremely limited or unavailable. Check with the restaurant directly for updates.

20. How far in advance should I book?

For weekends, it’s best to book at least 1–2 weeks in advance. Prime time slots (7–9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays) fill up fast.